Discussions

Al Simmons lost all of his props in a fire. I thought that I could do my part by posting here to let the people of Brandon know and how they can help.  
 
It sounds as he is taking it very hard, but is slowly trying to move forward.  
 
https://winnipeg.ctvnews.ca/mobile/just-gone-entertainer-al-simmons-loses-irreplaceable-show-supplies-in-fire-1.3808692  
 
gofundme.com/al-simmons  
 
Adam, can you fix the gofundme link above? Thanks.

Donate to your local food bank.  
 
The hungry are invisible.

We've enjoyed Al's acts for many years, I was so sorry to hear of the fire!

TheScotsman said "Donate to your local food bank.     The hungry are invisible. "

And so are many more who will never show their faces at a food bank, but will continue to work hard for their family, make sacrifices so that they have a roof & maybe eat, don''t want to trouble anyone...the food bank is for those who need it more, put on a brave face, never complain to anyone nor ask for help, and pretend around others that all is fine. Nobody talks about them. You may know some, but you will never know their status. They exist. Those folks are truly the invisible ones.  
 
BUT this is not what this thread is for. I do not know the man personally. This thread is to help am old man who, as much as he is living off the proceeds of his talents and hard work (as many do), lost a major part of his ability to support he and his wife, and lives to bring simple joy to children. He didn''t want to tell anyone because he did not want to burden them and didn''t say anything until a friend finally made him give in and let her start this campaign. He was going to not tell anyone and rebuild as he could on his own with his wife, but through talking with his friend, realized he would never be able to financially handle rebuilding, so gave his friend permission to proceed. He did choose to have this stay quiet, but I am glad the friend talked him into doing otherwise. That friend is gold!  
 
I cannot financially give at this point, but can help by spreading the word. He has touched many and brought joy to many as well. I know my kids adore his silly songs and banter.  
 
He has brought joy to kids all over who otherwise may not have any. Think on that a bit.  
 
Edited by Flutterby, 2018-02-19 21:19:02

TheScotsman said "Donate to your local food bank.     The hungry are invisible. "

I donate to the hungry, I donate to MSF and other charities, and I also donated to Al Simmons, because he's given my kids just as much joy in the last few years as he gave me when I was a kid. This man is a national treasure, and his life's work has gone up in flames. He's a Canadian entertainer, so he's not rich. He needs some cash to keep him fed while he spends time building new props.  
 
If you want to donate to the food bank, do it, but don't tell us that the only way to help is by following your lead without variation. Al Simmons is an investment, he pays dividends in the form of entertainment, and I can't wait to see what he builds next.

Generosity is a great thing in its many forms, but there's no reason a discussion over supporting someone should turn into a competitive thing. I'd suggest a separate thread to discuss other avenues so that this one can be on the intended topic. thx!